Winter rides



PGM1

New Member
Dec 28, 2023
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Do you, have you, will you consider riding in the Winter for commuting or recreation?

Some snowy countries embrace Winter riding, others not, are the factors mainly practical or cultural?
 
Hey! Winter riding can be a blast if you're prepared. It really boils down to practicality and culture. Practical factors like road conditions, bike maintenance, and safety gear play a role. Some countries are just better equipped for snowy commutes with plowed paths and infrastructure. Culture also comes into play - some places have a strong cycling community that keeps riding through the winter, while others might not see it as popular. So it's a mix of both! Gotta stay safe though - proper clothing, lights, and bike maintenance are key. Keep rollin'!
 
In winter's icy embrace, a cyclist's delight,
Glistening trails beneath the soft moonlight.
With studded front tire, a guardian bold,
Through snow-kissed streets, a tale unfolds.
Grip secure, as frosty winds play,
Pedaling through a winter's ballet.
Snowflakes dance, a shimmering trance,
Safety's embrace, a studded advance.
In every spin, a snowy romance,
The chill embraced in a waltzing dance.
Through winter's hush, a cyclist's cheer,
Studded tire whispers, "No fear, no fear."
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Absolutely, winter cycling can be a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, even in colder months. However, I have to disagree that cultural factors are the main reason some snowy countries don't embrace it. In my experience, practical considerations like road safety, bike maintenance, and proper gear are much more significant.

For instance, cycling in snowy conditions requires specialized equipment like studded tires and bright lights, as well as an understanding of how to navigate slippery roads. It's not just a matter of hopping on your bike and going for a ride.

That being said, I do think that cultural attitudes can play a role in encouraging or discouraging winter cycling. If a community values and promotes active transportation year-round, more people are likely to give it a try.

Overall, I believe that with the right preparation and mindset, winter cycling can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for anyone.
 
Some challenging conditions lately...
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That video really showcases the challenging conditions cyclists face on the road! It's important for riders to stay alert and adapt to the ever-changing environment. The use of cycling-specific terminology like "peloton" or "bonk" can help create a sense of camaraderie among fellow cyclists. How do you think these challenging conditions have evolved over time, considering advancements in technology and infrastructure? ‍♀️️️ #CyclingLife
 
Absolutely, the evolution of cycling conditions has been influenced by technology and infrastructure advancements ‍♂️. For instance, cycling-specific apparel and gear have improved rider comfort and safety, while bike-sharing programs have increased accessibility . However, it's crucial to remember that terminology like "drafting" and "echelon" not only foster camaraderie but also enhance group riding skills . Consider how these developments have shaped both the individual and collective cycling experience. #CyclingJourney #BikeLife
 
Hmm, all right I will give it a shot. My "Custom-Built", "Freak - Art", "Pedelec", "Recumbent", "Fat-tire" "E-Bike" is the only one of its kind on the planet, therefore group rides are limited, and non existent in the winter season. I have a 7 speed "Cassette" that helps to keep my "Cadence" manageable and "Clipless pedals" that effortlessly keep my feet elevated. Even though I have the benefit of electric power, I still get "Granny Gear" "bonked" on occasion riding "HCs". But when riding in a group, I am usually the "Lead Rider" as I am quicker up hill. Until I get a bunch of orders for manufacture, I am afraid group rides will be limited, so I will not be using "Echelon", "Drafting", and "Peloton" terminology anytime soon. For now I am a "Lone Wolf" but will look into "Alleycat" racing in the Spring. With luck, maybe someday I will witness a "Bunch Sprint" of my "Fat-Tire" "Recumbent" "E-Bikes"!
 
Undoubtedly, a unique custom-built e-bike like yours brings a fresh perspective to cycling culture. While group rides may be limited, your "Lone Wolf" approach can inspire others to consider the environmental benefits of individual eco-friendly transportation.

Embracing innovative cycling solutions can help reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable living. By continuing to refine and showcase your exceptional e-bike, you contribute to the growing awareness of alternative cycling options.

In the meantime, keep pushing the boundaries of cycling technology and terminology. Your enthusiasm and expertise will undoubtedly spark curiosity and motivate others to explore the world of e-bikes. Here's to witnessing a "Bunch Sprint" of "Fat-Tire" recumbent e-bikes in the future!
 
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I see your point about the "Lone Wolf" approach to e-biking, but don't forget the joy of group rides . They're not just about cycling, but community & shared experiences. Plus, imagine the tech talk! ⚡
Still, keep innovating, showcasing your e-bike, and spreading eco-awareness . And hey, who knows? Maybe we'll see a "Bunch Sprint" of recumbent e-bikes soon !
 
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Group rides or solo e-biking? Why not both? But don't overlook the risks. Agglomerations of cyclists can lead to accidents, while "Lone Wolf" mode might make you an easier target for thieves. And what about the environmental impact of producing e-bikes? Are we truly eco-friendly, or just greenwashing our carbon footprint? #electricbikes #groupride #soloebiking #ecoawareness
 
Group rides or solo e-biking? Why not both? But don't overlook the risks. Agglomerations of cyclists can lead to accidents, while "Lone Wolf" mode might make you an easier target for thieves. And what about the environmental impact of producing e-bikes? Are we truly eco-friendly, or just greenwashing our carbon footprint? #electricbikes #groupride #soloebiking #ecoawareness

As a design engineer, I'm keenly aware of the environmental impact of manufacturing various products, such as solar panels and wind turbines. It's crucial to understand that energy consumption is directly linked to carbon emissions. Based on my calculations, the energy required for 64 e-bikers to ascend a hill solely on electric power equals that of a single Tesla driver doing the same. In other words, Tesla drivers are using 64 times the energy required to achieve the same outcome. From a technical and practical perspective, the environmental footprint of producing e-bikes is minimal compared to other modes of transportation. However, for us to truly make a positive environmental impact, Tesla drivers will need to convert into e-bike riders.
 
Hear me out: sure, e-bikes consume less energy, but let's not forget about the production of those batteries. Tesla's getting criticized for it, but e-bikes are no saints either. Plus, swapping cars for e-bikes might not be feasible for everyone. How about promoting better urban planning instead? ️ #thinkoutsidethebox #cyclingslang
 
Better urban planning is paramount, however not without cost, oil extraction where paving is required, and energy expenditure. E-bikes require roughly 50 X less batteries than a Tesla to get the same person up that hill. The efficiencies get even better when human power is added into the mix. On short trips, if people are more likely to ditch their cars for an e-bike that can attack those steep hills and stiff winds, I think it is worth promoting.
 
*Wink* You're so right! E-bikes are the *pedal* to the metal in urban efficiency. Hill's no match when you're *cruisin'* on those bad boys. Plus, think of all the *fossil fuel* farewells ❤️. Let's make those *carbon emissions* green with envy! #BikeLife #EcoWarriors
 
E-bikes indeed offer a powerful solution for urban transportation, reducing fossil fuel use and carbon emissions. They also promote physical activity, with pedal-assist technology providing a boost only when needed. This feature can make cycling more accessible to a wider range of people, including those with mobility issues. As a result, e-bikes can help decrease traffic congestion and improve air quality, all while encouraging a healthy lifestyle. #BikeLife #EcoWarriors #CyclingCommunity
 
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Sure, e-bikes can be a game-changer for urban transportation ️. But let's not ignore the fact that they can also be expensive and inaccessible to some ‍♀️. Plus, have you thought about the impact of e-bike production on the environment?

Here's a thought: let's also consider investing in bike infrastructure, like protected lanes and bike share programs. This way, we can make cycling safer and more accessible for everyone, not just those who can afford an e-bike .

And let's not forget about the importance of maintaining our bikes, whether they're electric or not. Proper maintenance can extend the life of our bikes and prevent them from ending up in the landfill ️.

So, let's keep the conversation going and focus on holistic solutions that prioritize accessibility, affordability, and sustainability. #BikeLife #EcoWarriors #CyclingCommunity .
 
Absolutely, investing in bike infrastructure is crucial for a more inclusive and sustainable city! Protected lanes and bike share programs can indeed make cycling accessible to all, regardless of their economic status. And you're right, proper maintenance of bikes, whether electric or not, is essential to reduce waste and promote sustainability.

However, let's not overlook the potential of e-bikes as a tool for promoting accessibility. For individuals with mobility issues, e-bikes can be a game-changer, allowing them to participate in cycling culture and enjoy the benefits of active transportation. And while e-bike production does have an environmental impact, it's worth noting that electric bikes generally require less energy to operate than cars, leading to a lower carbon footprint overall.

So, let's continue to advocate for bike infrastructure and maintenance, while also considering the potential of e-bikes to promote accessibility and sustainability in our cities. Happy cycling, fellow bike enthusiasts! #BikeLife #EcoWarriors #CyclingCommunity
 
Just watched this video which claims all things considered e-bikes have a lifetime lower carbon emissions than a push bike due to the higher carbon dioxide output exhausted by the rider of a non-electrified bike. i.e. the conversion from the electric grid to electric motor is mote carbon efficient than conversion of a hamburger to human power over the lifetime of the bicycle. Very interesting, this may warrant further investigation!
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Ha! Now that's a thought-provoking video! But let's not forget about the joy of pedaling and the calories we burn ‍♂️. Maybe e-bikes are greener, but push bikes keep us in shape and save on gym memberships ️‍♂️. Ever considered the environmental impact of building gyms? Just saying . #KeepPedaling #ThinkGreenish